On Golden Pond: Family’s emotional ripples on stage

A mix of turbulent relationships, humour and pathos across three generations will come to the fore in Limelight Theatre’s latest production this February. Written by Ernest Thompson and directed by Shelley McGinn, On Golden Pond focuses on an ageing couple who spend each summer at their home on a lake. The play centres on a visit from their daughter, her fiancé and his son, exploring the troubled upbringing she had with her father and the difficulties faced by the couple after a long marriage. Best known for the Academy Award-winning 1981 film adaptation starring Henry Fonda, Katharine Hepburn and Jane Fonda, the play also won a Tony Award and five Drama Desk Awards when first staged in 1979. McGinn said that while she saw the film many years ago, it didn’t have a large impact on her at the time. But as she started to get older, along with people around her, she realised it was an important piece of theatre. “The relationship between the central characters has great appeal,” McGinn said. “Within the plot there is a character for almost everyone to identify with because three generations are represented. “Although it’s not a traditional comedy as such, there is great humour in the dialogue.” While some may compare the stage version of On Golden Pond to the film, McGinn is determined to make the production her own. “We have a real-life husband and wife team in the show, which adds for extra frisson and authenticity,” she said. On Golden Pond plays at 8pm, February 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11 and 12. Tickets are $19 adults, $16 concession and $10 children. Book on 9571 8591 between 9am and midday, Monday to Friday, or online at www.limelighttheatre.com.